Wondering what to pay for a cash job? Here’s a guide to fair pay rates for common gigs and how to avoid ghosting by offering the right amount upfront.
So you’re ready to hire someone — maybe to move some furniture, clean out the yard, or help with a one-off project. But now you’re asking the big question:
“How much should I actually pay?”
Here’s the honest truth: if you underpay, people will ghost you. If you offer fair money for the work, people will show up, do the job right, and maybe even want to come back next time.
It doesn’t have to break your budget — but a little fairness goes a long way. This guide breaks down realistic cash job pay ranges and includes average flat rates based on what we’ve seen around Philly and the U.S.
Why People Ghost Low-Paying Gigs
Nobody wants to admit it, but here’s why people flake:
- The job pays less than gas money
- The task was described vaguely
- They took a better offer 5 minutes later
- They felt disrespected before they even arrived
If your offer is fair, clear, and fast — you’ll attract better workers, and they’ll actually show up.
What to Pay for Common Cash Jobs (Hourly + Fixed Rates)
Moving Help
$20–30/hr per person
Fixed rate suggestion: $75–$100 per person for a 3-hour job
Heavy lifting, stairs, and loading trucks aren’t easy — especially in summer heat or tight spaces. If you’re asking someone to move couches and boxes, pay enough to make it worth it. More if it’s last-minute or requires driving.
Yard Work / Cleanup Jobs
$18–25/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $60–$100 for 2–4 hours, depending on size
This includes raking, mulching, pulling weeds, hauling bags, etc. Got a big mess or backbreaking labor? Offer more.
Cleaning (Homes, Garages, Offices)
$20–25/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $80–$120 for a 3–4 hour clean
This is for general house cleaning or one-time deep cleans. Bigger houses or dirtier jobs = higher pay. Workers may bring their own supplies — clarify this upfront.
Flyer Distribution or Door-Hanging
$15–20/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $40–$60 per 100–150 flyers
Good for local promotion tasks. Make sure the job is walkable and not sketchy (don’t make people enter buildings or knock on doors unless agreed ahead of time).
Junk Removal Help / Light Demolition
$20–30/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $100–$150 for a half day
This is tough physical work. If it includes stairs, dirty/moldy items, or heavy lifting, pay more.
Painting or Light Handyman Jobs
$25–40/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $100–$300 depending on task
Hanging shelves, patching holes, touching up paint — rates go up based on skill and tools provided. Don’t offer $15/hr for someone using their own drill and expertise.
Event Setup / Breakdown / Party Help
$18–25/hr
Fixed rate suggestion: $60–$100 for setup or cleanup (2–4 hours)
Great for weddings, birthdays, or business events. Pay more if the hours are odd (late-night breakdowns, for example).
Tips to Make Sure You Don’t Get Ghosted
Be Clear in Your Post
Say exactly what the job is, where it is, how long it will take, and what you’re offering.
Bad:
“Need help with something this weekend. LMK.”
Better:
“Small catering company in West Philly needs 1 person to help prep and clean up for a private event this Friday at 3pm. About 2.5 hours. $60 cash paid at the end.”
“Housecleaning service hiring an extra helper for an Airbnb turnover in Fishtown. Job starts at 10am. $100 flat rate for 4 hours. Cleaning supplies provided.”
“Local print shop needs a hand assembling promotional packets and stuffing envelopes. 1-day gig, 4 hours max. Paying $75 cash.”
“Landscaping crew in North Philly hiring a helper for mulching and yard cleanup. 8am start, $90 for 4 hours. Bring gloves.”
“Event planner in South Jersey hiring help setting up chairs and decor for a wedding. Setup starts at 11am sharp. $80 cash when done.”
Clarity = trust.
Offer a Fair Rate
If you try to pay below market, you’ll either get no responses or workers who don’t show up. Bump your offer by $10–20 and you’ll get better applicants, faster.
Confirm the Day Before
A simple message like:
“Still good for tomorrow at 10am?”
can be the difference between a no-show and a done deal.
Pay Fast, Pay Smooth
Have cash ready or the Venmo/Zelle info confirmed. No one wants to chase their money after a job.
Final Word
Offering a fair, flat rate or solid hourly pay isn’t just about being nice — it’s how you get quality help that shows up and finishes the job.
If your payment feels worth it to them, the job will feel worth it to you.
Need help right now?
Post your gig today and connect with local workers who are ready to hustle — and expect fair pay for fair work.
